Following the success of the Cito, Omnitek developed a new generation for the popular viscosity autosampler, further increasing throughput, capacity and reliability. Integrating perfectly with S-flow IV operation, it makes Houillon viscosity testing even more accurate and easier than before. With its unattended operation, Cito is able to service 8 tubes, is customizable for different sample racks and can be added to any existing S-flow IV system in-field. The new Cito model now also includes an integrated drip-prevention system, ensuring the system can operate free of spillage or carry-over.
Cito consists of a custom robotic arm that is mounted onto a base frame, which can reach and serve up to two S-flow IV instruments, one on either side. Around the base and on the flat top of Cito sufficient space is offered to store pipette racks and sample trays.
The optimized Cito work area provides sample space to store 6 pipette racks (with optionally different tips for standard and high-viscosity samples) and 4 sample racks. Below the work area is a large drawer to store consumables, as well as storage for the tips that were discarded after an injection.
Cito automatically detects the level in each individual sample vial, thereby minimizing tip immersion depth. Additionally, a new drip-prevention mechanism places a retractable reservoir below the pipette to catch any droplet that may fall from the tip, eliminating any potential spillage or carry-over.
From a single sample aspiration, 2 sequential injections in 2 independent baths can be performed using only a single pipette tip. When injecting into tubes at 40 ºC and 100 ºC, the PC software automatically provides the Viscosity Index. Up to 80 injections per hour can be performed at 2 temperatures in this manner, provided that 2 S-flow IV systems are connected.
Omnitek offers standardized sample racks that can contain up to 4 racks of 96 samples each, with a total of 384 positions, using 12 ml sample vials often utilized by automatic sample preparation systems.
Omnitek offers the possibility of customizing a sample rack to facilitate the use of an existing sample cup or vial. For users with high sample throughput an upgrade from 1 L to 5 L waste/solvent bottles is available.